2006 Mitsubishi Montero

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Estimated MPG

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These city and highway gas mileage estimates are for the model's standard trim configurations. Where there are optional features, packages or equipment that result in higher gas mileage, those fuel-economy estimates are not included here.

Summary

By Jim Flammang

Cars.com National

December 6, 2005

Vehicle OverviewAttesting to its offroad prowess, Mitsubishi's largest sport utility vehicle has dominated recent Paris-to-Dakar rallies. In addition to the Montero, Mitsubishi also produces the slightly smaller midsize Endeavor and the compact Outlander. All of Mitsubishi's SUVs have suffered from sluggish sales lately.

For 2006, only a Limited model is offered. Other than a smaller selection of color choices, nothing has changed for the 2006 model year.

ExteriorNot much in the Montero's appearance has changed since it was updated in 2003. Changes then included a restyled grille, new integrated side steps and fresh bodyside cladding. The front and rear ends have a rounded profile, and the Montero has minimal overhangs.

Measuring 190.2 inches long overall on a 109.7-inch wheelbase, the four-door Montero is comparable in size to the Endeavor but nearly 2 inches taller. A full-size spare tire sits on the tailgate, and a power sunroof, tire-pressure-monitoring system and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard.

Monteros have a fully independent front and rear suspension, which Mitsubishi says is a benefit for offroad travel. Illuminated running boards, flip-open third-row windows, rear privacy glass and door-mounted puddle lamps are standard. A removable tool kit includes a flashlight.

InteriorThe Montero seats up to seven people using two front buckets, a folding three-person middle bench seat and a removable two-place rear seat that folds flat into the floor.

A backseat DVD entertainment system is optional. Maximum cargo space totals 91.7 cubic feet, but drops to 39.8 cubic feet when all the seats are in their upright position.

Under the HoodThe Montero's 3.8-liter V-6 produces 215 horsepower and 248 pounds-feet of torque. The V-6 teams with a five-speed Sportronic automatic transmission that permits manually selected gear changes. Four-wheel drive with a Low range and a locking center differential is standard.

SafetyAll-disc antilock brakes, traction control, an electronic stability system and seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the front seats are standard.

Driving ImpressionsThough it is capable for ordinary driving and built for offroad prowess, Mitsubishi's flagship SUV has an old-fashioned feel to it. The Montero's excessive size and trucklike sounds won't appeal to buyers who prefer a more modern — and perhaps smaller — SUV. The Montero's rally racing dominance is an interesting aside, but won't matter much to most SUV buyers unless they plan to engage in serious offroad driving.